Three Lotus Elise/Exige Final Editions Headed to North America

If you’re a Lotus fan, we have some good news, some more good news, and some really good news for you today: Although this is the end of the line for Lotus’s bite-sized, iconic sports cars as we know them, Lotus is building three more special edition Elise and Exige models. Even better, all three […]

Steve Siler

Aug 5, 2011

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If you’re a Lotus fan, we have some good news, some more good news, and some really good news for you today: Although this is the end of the line for Lotus’s bite-sized, iconic sports cars as we know them, Lotus is building three more special edition Elise and Exige models. Even better, all three “Final Edition” Lotuses were developed specifically for North America, where we’re all too accustomed to being passed over by Lotus when it comes to special editions. And the best news? If you can find one—only a handful of each will be built—each Final Edition Lotus comes loaded with options at a surprisingly low price, so not only are these little collectibles crazy fast, they’re crazy bargains.

So pick your favorite and get ready to fight for it. Here are the details:

The2011 Elise SC Final Edition will be available in Ardent Red, Aspen White, Carbon Grey, or Chrome Orange, each with a matte-black hard top and matte-black exterior trim. Also included is the 218-hp, supercharged version of Lotus’s Toyota-sourced 1.8-liter four-banger, as well as a sport suspension, limited-slip differential, 14-spoke forged wheels, Alcantara-covered ProBax seats, and the Touring Pack’s snazzy interior trim. Only 15 will be offered for $58,625, only $2510 more than the base Elise SC.

The 2011 Exige Matte Black Final Edition is covered in matte-black paint, including the rear wing, front splitter, and body scoops, with a three-element rear diffuser rendered in a black anodized finish. Powered by the Exige S260 Sport model’s 257-hp supercharged four, the sinister coupe features an equally spooky, reflection-free interior swathed in Alcantara, as well as a limited-slip diff and five-spoke wheels. It also includes Lotus’s Sport Pack and Track Pack option packages. Just 25 will be produced for $71,025, roughly $5000 less than the Exige S260 Sport, which costs $76,120 before any pricey paint and option packs.

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The 2011 Exige S260 Final Edition will be available in any of Lotus’s paint colors, with body-color scoops and spoilers and black five-spoke wheels. It features the same 257-hp supercharged engine, rear diffuser, Track Pack, and Sport Pack options as the Matte Black Final Edition. It also includes the Touring Pack and the optional limited-slip diff. Best of all, it is a stunning deal at $68,625, with production capped at 30. We’re sorry to see the Elise and Exige go, but glad to see Lotus bid them an appropriate farewell.